an eight-city tour, starting in new york. it was magical. it was as if malcolm and martin were still alive an the mets had won the world series, all in new york, all in one day. mandela spoke at yankees stadium. >> you now know who i am. i am yankee. >> reporter: it wasn't mandela's oratory skills but his story that inspired. a story so familiar it intertwined with america's past and still so very painful. the anti-apartheid protest of the '80s captivated a new generation on college campuses and communities. ♪ >> reporter: amidst the demonstrations demanding die vestment in south africa american, but the ongoing violence there in townships there like soweto. it took the story of one man to help america better understand the struggle of one nation. mandela reminded the world with reconciliation was more powerful than revenge. forgiveness is a gift to be given. the boldness of his vision humbled the powerful in america. >> don't you hate those people when they let you go? he said briefly i did. but when i was walking out of my compound for t